The sign on Charles De Gaulle’s Beirut residence in Mar Elias disappeared few days ago and got reported on Save Beirut Heritage’s Facebook page. There were worries that the house might get demolished but the Ministry of Culture denied the rumors. However the stories that emerged were not really convincing, as one source said that the house owner removed the plate to clean it up and protect it and another version said the owner removed it out of fear that Georges Abdallah supporters might damage it.
What matters now is that the plate was put back and both the Minister of Culture & Beirut Governor re-assured everyone that the house will remain preserved and is not up for demolition.
French Commander Charles De Gaulle stayed in Beirut between 1929 and 1932 before he became Head of the Free French Forces.